Bruny Island is a hidden gem off the southeastern coast of Tasmania that features stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and delicious local food. If you’re based in Hobart or travelling nearby on a Tasmanian road trip, a day trip to Bruny Island is a fantastic way to spend your time. Read our guide to help you plan a truly spectacular tour of Bruny Island, so you can make the most of your day out.
Getting There: Hobart to Bruny Island Drive
To get from Hobart to Bruny Island, drive down to Kingston either via the faster inland route or the scenic coastal route. Take the Channel Highway to Kettering, the gateway to Bruny Island, a little over 30 km south of Hobart. Hop on the Bruny Island Ferry and bring your car across so you’ll be able to get around when you arrive.
We suggest that you arrive early at the Kettering ferry terminal to ensure you can get across, and that you book in advance during peak seasons. Also, it’s worth bearing in mind that in the unlikely chance that your car is damaged on the ferry, your protection won’t cover it. So, be sure to make sure it’s locked and in a secure spot!
Top Attractions on Bruny Island
Cross the Neck Lookout
Bruny Island consists of two parts: North Bruny Island and South Bruny Island. The ferry will take you to North Bruny Island, from which the road leads south across a narrow isthmus called ‘The Neck’, a great place to start your day. When you’re ready to cross The Neck, take a stroll along the boardwalks to see the little penguins and breathtaking views from the Truganini Lookout.
Explore Adventure Bay
Perfect for a walk on the beach or a quick dip, Adventure Bay is also the starting point of many fantastic trails on Bruny Island. Here, you can see some of the island’s famed white wallabies – you’ll have to look carefully, though, as there are only around 200 on the island.
For something nice and easy for the whole family, the one-hour return hike at Grass Point offers incredible views of Adventure Bay.
Discover Cape Bruny Lighthouse
The historic Cape Bruny Lighthouse, dating back to 1838, is located on the southern tip of the island. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the island’s maritime history here and catch spectacular views of the Southern Ocean.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
Feeling hungry? It’s about time for a pit stop. Bruny Island is a foodie paradise, known for several different food and drink items, like cheese, oysters, honey, chocolate, beer, and wine, to name but a few. There are several hotspots to try out, including Australia’s southernmost winery as well as its southernmost licensed pub.
The Perfect Bruny Island Day Trip with SIXT
What are you waiting for? A Bruny Island day trip is calling your name. As Bruny Island measures only about 40 km in length, so one of our compact or medium-sized cars is perfect for getting around, available from locations like Hobart City and Hobart Airport. With one of our rentals you’ll have the freedom to explore all the island has to offer at your own pace, whether that be natural beauty spots, or enjoying delicious foods. If you have any questions about vehicle rental from SIXT, please get in touch with the team.
